Eyebrow plucking, pimple popping and nail clipping: The worst public transport 'icks' exposed

Ever been on public transport and witnessed something so repulsive it's seared into your memory forever? Well, you're not alone. Transport for NSW has taken to Facebook to reveal the most cringe-worthy commuter behaviours that'll make you want to disinfect your brain—and everything else on your person!

In their quest to promote decency on public transport, Transport NSW coined the term "the 'ick'," describing that instantaneous wave of repulsion you feel when witnessing unsavoury acts during your commute.

"Respect yourself and others on public transport by not behaving in ick-worthy ways like these," they urged.

RELATED:

• 'Beyond revolting': Man takes his shoe off and cuts toenails on train

• 'Revolting!': Woman filmed clipping fingernails on train

• Passengers appalled by ‘disgusting’ act on Sydney train

Accompanying their plea was an image cataloguing some of the most common and revolting commuter crimes: nail clippers in action, the audacious commute DJ blasting music, litterbugs flinging garbage, and worst of all, the person who insists on sitting directly opposite you when other seats are vacant.

Sharing horror stories

The post ignited a flood of responses from fellow commuters sharing their own horror stories, with Transport NSW joining in on the laughs.

"I once saw someone shaving!!" recounted one commuter. "That's a BIG no for us," quipped Transport NSW in response.

Another chimed in, "I had someone flossing for 30 mins!" prompting a collective shudder from the virtual audience. "That's a whole 'nother level of yuck right there!" exclaimed a sympathetic commenter.

But the horror didn't stop there. Commuters revealed tales of toenail clipping, hair brushing (complete with a snowfall of scalp), pungent food feasts, open mouth chewing, and even boyfriend-spot-squeezing sessions—much to the disbelief of Transport NSW...and the rest of us!

"Someone sneezed on the back of my head - right into my hair," one person wrote, evoking collective disgust among the thread.

Bad public transport etiquette

Other commuter crimes veered into the realm of just plain bad etiquette, like seat-hogging, bag-sitting, and unnecessary closeness. "The bag doesn't get its own seat!" Transport NSW firmly declared, siding with frustrated commuters everywhere.

And who were the ultimate culprits behind these commuter catastrophes? Apparently, students took the crown.

SHOP:

• New 'fun and delicious' Swisse gummy vitamins loved by popular Aussie duo

• The new Frank Green colours inspired by catwalk trends

• These videos of animals acting like (badly behaved) humans are a must watch

"No one can beat school kids," lamented one commuter, detailing the chaos and mess left in their wake. "Some excellent add-on features come with them, like having breakfast stains on the seats and spilling soft drinks everywhere after school."

So, the next time you step onto public transport, keep your eyes peeled for more than just your stop—because you never know what ick-inducing spectacle might unfold before you. And remember, decency is a community effort, so let's all strive to keep our commutes ick-free, one train ride at a time.

Subscribe to our MAFS newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Got a story tip? Email us now.